New Collection Shines Light on NZ Literary Landscape
9 March 2018—For Immediate Release.
A new collection of speculative fiction has burst upon New Zealand’s literary scene, with iconic historical fantasy
author Juliet Marillier singing its praises. Te Kōrero Ahi Kā, an anthology from SpecFicNZ (Speculative Fiction New Zealand) showcases science fiction, fantasy and horror—from
award-winning and emerging New Zealand authors, artists and poets.
Among the line-up are many authors who have won or placed in New Zealand literary contests or have multiple awards to
their names. Their fiction features alongside works from emerging creatives. The collection is the first of its kind
from SpecFicNZ, an umbrella organisation that fosters talent, readership and creative energy.
SpecFicNZ President Grace Bridges says, “Te Kōrero Ahi Kā means to keep the home fires burning, appropriate when we’re developing local talent. No two stories are alike, so
there’s something to suit all tastes in Te Kōrero Ahi Kā—literary, experimental, fantasy, dark, and dreamy. We have zombies attacking the InterIslander and swarming into
Wellington, poetry with bizarre double meaning, space travel, a virtual-reality dance party, taniwha, demons and
dragons. The collection draws heavily on New Zealand culture with several works influenced by Māori mythology and shines
a light on our literary landscape.”
Award-winning New Zealand-born Juliet Marillier, author of multiple historical fantasy series (Sevenwaters, Blackthorn and Grim, Wildwood Dancing and Shadowfell), says, “Reading Te Kōrero Ahi Kā, I felt a strong sense of Kiwi identity…a nice balance of fantasy, science fiction and horror, with some stories
blending genres. The writers demonstrate a diversity of approaches, from the tried and trusted to the more boldly
experimental.”
Phillip Mann, Arthur C. Clarke finalist and author of The Disestablishment of Paradise, who has received a New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to literature and drama, says, “This collection
explores many aspects of science fiction, fantasy, and horror, and has something for everyone, from time shifting cows
to a revelation concerning the last moments of life. I am glad to see Māori writers are prominent and we certainly
experience the presence of the Taniwha.”
In the words of Juliet Marillier, “I hope these stories will delight, surprise, amuse and intrigue you. And I hope the
anthology reassures you that speculative fiction writing in New Zealand is not only alive and well, but full of creative
energy…This book has the true Kiwi heart I was looking for.”
Te Kōrero Ahi Kā is available on Amazon, from the Book Depository and from good New Zealand bookstores.
SpecFicNZ provides mentoring, competitions, resources, and publishing and networking opportunities for readers, writers,
artists and reviewers.
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